Alabama-Florida Hoops Matchup Fueled by 'We're Gonna Beat 'Em' Remark

Florida coach Todd Golden's comment about beating Alabama with or without star player Charles Bediako has become a main storyline ahead of the highly anticipated game.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:47am

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Florida coach Todd Golden's comment that the Gators will 'beat 'em anyways' when responding to Alabama center Charles Bediako's return to college basketball has become a major storyline ahead of the highly anticipated matchup between the two ranked SEC teams. Golden has since questioned whether his viral remark was a good idea, but it has added extra intrigue to Sunday's game between No. 19 Florida and No. 23 Alabama.

Why it matters

The Bediako eligibility case has been a contentious topic among college coaches, with many criticizing the NCAA and calling for action. Golden has been one of the most outspoken, even with Alabama on Florida's schedule. The back-and-forth between the coaches has added an extra layer of drama to an already highly anticipated conference clash between two ranked teams.

The details

Bediako, a 7-foot center, is suing the NCAA in an attempt to regain his college eligibility after leaving school and entering the NBA draft. A Tuscaloosa judge granted a temporary restraining order last week that allows Bediako to play for Alabama - at least until an injunction hearing is held. Bediako is averaging 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in two games since returning, providing a needed inside presence for the Crimson Tide.

  • Last week, Golden made the 'we're gonna beat 'em anyways' comment during the school's weekly radio show that was broadcast in front of a live audience.
  • A Tuscaloosa judge granted a temporary restraining order last week that allows Bediako to play for Alabama.

The players

Todd Golden

The head coach of the Florida Gators men's basketball team.

Charles Bediako

A 7-foot center for the Alabama Crimson Tide who is suing the NCAA in an attempt to regain his college eligibility after leaving school and entering the NBA draft.

Nate Oats

The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball team.

Thomas Haugh

A star forward for the Florida Gators men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“In a sense, I think it's been kind of good for media or for kind of a buildup to the game. I'm not sure how much that's going to really impact the result.”

— Todd Golden, Florida Head Coach

“It's definitely not right. This dude literally was at college, left and then came back. … We'll play them with or without him. It doesn't matter.”

— Thomas Haugh, Florida Star Forward

“It's going to be a track meet. We need to emphasize not letting them get out and get hot. They are one of those teams that once they get going, it's hard to stop, so we have to not let them get going at all.”

— Thomas Haugh, Florida Star Forward

What’s next

An injunction hearing will be held to determine if Bediako can continue playing for Alabama beyond the temporary restraining order.

The takeaway

The Bediako eligibility case has sparked debate among college coaches about the need for NCAA and congressional action to address issues around players leaving school and then attempting to return. The back-and-forth between the Florida and Alabama coaches has added an extra layer of drama to an already highly anticipated conference clash between two ranked teams.